London, United Kingdom. Outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer said his successor would have to devote as much time to international crises and diplomacy as he did, rejecting suggestions that Britain’s next leader could focus more heavily on domestic issues. He said foreign and domestic policy could not be separated as Britain faced an increasingly volatile world.
Starmer rejects distinction between foreign and domestic priorities
In a BBC interview on Friday, Starmer said debates over the balance between international and domestic affairs overlooked how closely linked the two had become.
“There’s often this discussion – what’s the right balance between dealing with international affairs and dealing with domestic affairs? They’re one and the same thing,” he said.
Asked whether a prime minister could spend less time on diplomacy than he had, Starmer replied: “No, I don’t think it is possible.”
Succession debate focuses on domestic agenda
Starmer announced last month that he would step down after two years in office. He has faced criticism from some opponents over the amount of time he has spent on foreign policy.
Lawmaker Andy Burnham, who is widely expected to replace Starmer, has promised to focus on domestic priorities including living standards, housing, infrastructure and devolving more power to Britain’s regions.
Starmer defends international record
In a video titled “With Keir” posted on X on Saturday, Starmer defended the international focus of his premiership, saying Britain had restored its global standing.
He cited support for Ukraine and participation in international coalitions among his key achievements.
“The fact that now other countries look to us for that leadership is something I’m really proud of having delivered in the two years we’ve had in government,” he said.
Domestic achievements also highlighted
Starmer also pointed to stabilising the economy, reducing child poverty and improving the National Health Service among his key accomplishments.